Standing Forward Fold

Uttanasana

Standing Forward Fold hinges the torso over straight legs, releasing the head toward the floor and the hands beside the feet. It stretches the hamstrings and calms the mind, appearing throughout the Sun Salutations. Folding from the hips keeps the length in the spine.

Alignment cues

• Fold forward from the hip creases, knees micro-soft if needed
• Let the head and neck hang heavy
• Bring the hands to the floor beside or behind the feet

Benefits

• Stretches the hamstrings and calves
• Releases tension in the neck and back
• Calms the mind

Modifications

• Bend the knees generously to let the belly rest on the thighs
• Rest hands on blocks instead of the floor